Fatal house fire
POLICE are investigating a fatal house fire that occurred in Traralgon on Thursday.
Latrobe Valley police Criminal Investigations Unit Detective Senior Constable Stephen Cook said Traralgon CFA attended the fire in Chenhall Crescent about 12.10am.
Det Snr Const Cook said on arrival the two-bedroom unit was engulfed in flames, and a deceased person was found in the front master bedroom.
He said the cause of the fire was still under investigation, but was not being treated as suspicious.
While the body has yet to be identified, it is believed a 37 year-old woman resided at the property.
“Once someone’s burnt, they’re somewhat unidentifiable. When the autopsy has been performed, and dental checks conducted, a brief of evidence will be provided for the coroner,” Det Snr Const Cook said.
No other bodies were found in the home, while the unit suffered extensive damage, including a caved roof, a burnt master bedroom and smoke damage throughout.
Boolarra house fire
A WOMAN and her young baby escaped a fire which engulfed their home when a log rolled out of the fireplace.
Traralgon CFA operations officer Daryll Hunter said the mother tried to put the log back into the fireplace, but unable to do so, escaped with her baby unharmed.
Mr Hunter said about 20 CFA firefighters attended the scene at Darlimurla Road at 11am on Thursday, including Boolarra, Hazelwood North, Morwell, Traralgon, Traralgon West, Yinnar and Yinnar South members.
“Three quarters of the house is extensively damaged, but firefighters using internal firefighting were able to save the last quarter of the house,” Mr Hunter said.
Mr Hunter reminded the community to be vigilant around fireplaces, beware of timber falling out of fireplaces and to keep flammable material away from fireplaces.
“Most fatal fires in the home can be prevented. Plan and practice your fire escape plan with your family. Get out, stay away and call Triple 000,” Mr Hunter said.